Exodus 26

Key Components of the Chapter:
The Tabernacle Curtains (vv. 1–6):

Ten curtains made of fine linen with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and cherubim embroidered into them.

Curtains are joined in two sets of five, then coupled together with gold clasps to form one tabernacle.

Curtains of Goats’ Hair (vv. 7–13):

Eleven additional outer curtains made from goats’ hair for a tent over the tabernacle.

These form a protective covering, joined with bronze clasps.

Coverings and Layers (v. 14):

Two more layers:

Ram skins dyed red

Sea cow (or durable leather) skins on top

These layers protected the tabernacle from the elements.

Framework – Boards and Bars (vv. 15–30):

Frames (boards) made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold, stand upright on silver bases.

Horizontal crossbars hold the frames together, with gold rings to guide them.

This gives the tabernacle a portable yet stable structure.

The Inner Veil (vv. 31–33):

A veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn with cherubim separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies).

The Ark of the Covenant is placed behind this veil.

The Screen for the Entrance (vv. 36–37):

A curtain (screen) of similar colorful fabric is placed at the entrance of the tent.

Supported by five gold-covered pillars with bronze bases.

Key Themes:
Holiness and Separation: The veil emphasizes God's absolute holiness—only the high priest may enter the Most Holy Place.

God's Dwelling is Precise: Every detail reflects God's intentional design and desire for order in worship.

Symbolism of Christ:

The veil later torn at Jesus' death (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes that access to God is now open through Christ.

The materials and craftsmanship point to the glory, beauty, and purity of God.

Application Points:
God is not casual about worship—He desires both beauty and obedience.

The veil reminds us of the separation our sin creates, but also the hope of reconciliation through Christ.

The layered coverings show God’s protection and provision for His presence among His people.